RC Concrete
Long view of a new, wet concrete driveway with a large rectangular pattern in Yarrow Point, WA, lined with steel edging.
Completed 2024

Smooth Finish Concrete Driveway with Large Format Saw-Cut Slabs

A geometric pattern of large, smooth-finished slabs defines this modern concrete driveway in Yarrow Point, creating a grand entrance to a contemporary waterfront home.

  • Yarrow Point, WA
  • 2-3 weeks
  • 2500 sq ft
  • 9 photos
Long view of a new, wet concrete driveway with a large rectangular pattern in Yarrow Point, WA, lined with steel edging.

The linear pattern creates a strong visual path toward the home.

Wide, integrated concrete steps on a modern driveway in Yarrow Point, WA, showing the smooth, dark gray finish.

Steps are formed directly into the walkway for a unified look.

Side angle of a smooth concrete walkway in Yarrow Point, WA, highlighting the saw-cut pattern and Corten steel border.

The steel edging provides a clean separation from the landscape.

Project Stages Shown

  • 1forming-and-steel
  • 2pouring
  • 3finishing
  • 4project-complete

Project Overview

A geometric pattern of large, smooth-finished slabs defines this modern concrete driveway in Yarrow Point, creating a grand entrance to a contemporary waterfront home. The surface was meticulously hard-troweled to achieve a high-sheen, reflective quality that interacts beautifully with ambient light, particularly evident in the evening photos. Precise saw-cut control joints form a bold, linear pattern, giving the impression of massive, custom-laid stone pavers while providing critical structural integrity. This technique manages the natural forces of concrete expansion and contraction. Subtle variations in the gray tones across different slabs add visual depth and character to the installation. Wide, integrated concrete steps provide a gradual transition in elevation, maintaining the clean, monolithic aesthetic. A simple steel border on one side offers a crisp edge against the surrounding landscape, completing the minimalist design.

Perspective shot looking up a modern concrete driveway towards a contemporary house with large glass windows.

The driveway's modern design complements the home's architecture.

View from the top of the driveway looking down towards a waterfront, showing the large patio area.

The concrete surface extends into a large patio with a water view.

A newly finished concrete patio and walkway with a reflective, wet surface next to a modern building.

The smooth finish gives the concrete a mirror-like quality when wet.

Construction crew covering a section of newly poured concrete at dusk under a temporary wooden frame.

Protecting the fresh concrete is a critical step for proper curing.

Workers troweling a large expanse of fresh concrete at night, creating a smooth, uniform surface.

Night work is often necessary to finish concrete at the ideal time.

A crew pulling a plastic sheet over a freshly poured and formed concrete walkway during the evening.

Covering the slab helps control the curing process for strength.

Tags:

  • Saw Cut Control Joints
  • Concrete Steps
  • Smooth Finish

Things to Know

01

Is a smooth finish a safe option for steep concrete driveways regarding traction?

While visually appealing, a hard trowel smooth finish offers less traction than textured finishes, especially when wet or icy. For driveways with a significant slope, a broom or sand finish is generally recommended to improve grip for both vehicles and pedestrians. Texture is the most reliable method for ensuring safety on inclines.

02

What are the advantages of using saw cuts to create patterns on driveways for modern homes?

Saw cuts provide crisp, geometric lines that strongly complement modern architecture. This method is a cost-effective way to create the high-end look of large pavers or stone slabs. Functionally, these cuts act as essential control joints, directing any potential cracks to occur within straight, predictable lines where they are virtually invisible.

03

How do you maintain the clean look of a large, smooth-finish driveway with many saw cuts?

Regular cleaning with a leaf blower or hose prevents debris from accumulating in the saw cuts. For a deeper clean, use a pressure washer on a low setting. Applying a quality sealer every few years is crucial; it protects the surface from stains and moisture, making it much easier to maintain its original appearance.

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Quality Concrete Driveways for Yarrow Point homes

Every project in Yarrow Point starts with local conditions. As Pacific Northwest concrete contractors, we design and pour concrete driveway around your soil, slope, drainage and weather so it looks great and lasts for decades.

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